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Approved Automotive Services take great pride in offering their clients personalised, and friendly service at all times. 

Conveniently located in Newton, the business is a member of the Repco Auto Tech training program, ensuring their technicians are kept fully up to date with modern vehicle repair methods. 

Approved Automotive Services have a wealth of experience in servicing all makes and models, including commercial fleet vehicles. As a Repco Authorised Service centre, they have a commitment to high quality workmanship, ensuring the very best in automotive care.

Engines that operate through internal combustion rely on large amounts of clean air to ensure the fuel burns properly and generates the power needed to drive the vehicle. At Approved Automotive Services in Newton, we understand how vital it is to keep your car's air filter in good condition as part of protecting your engine's health. Your engine requires extremely clean air to function efficiently. Dirt, dust, and other particles entering the engine can cause serious damage. That’s where the air filter comes into play. It ensures the air entering the combustion chambers is clean, shielding key engine components such as the pistons and cylinders from wear and damage. Why Replace Your Air Filter? Save on Fuel Costs: Your engine requires the correct balance of fuel and air to run efficiently. A clogged air filter restricts airflow, causing your engine to run inefficiently – often referred to as ‘running rich.’ This not only puts additional stress on your engine but can also increase fuel consumption by up to 10%. No one likes spending more on petrol than necessary!   Protect Your Engine: Over time, air filters become clogged and weaker, increasing the risk of damage. A damaged or overly dirty air filter can allow harmful particles to enter the engine, potentially leading to expensive repairs.   Benefits of Replacing Your Air Filter: Extends the life of your engine Improves fuel efficiency Reduces vehicle emissions At Approved Automotive Services, we always check the condition of your air filter during every full car service. Whether it’s a major or minor service, or one that follows your manufacturer’s handbook or logbook guidelines, you can trust us to keep your engine running smoothly.

Keep your engine healthy with clean air filters. Improve fuel efficiency, reduce emissions, and extend engine life. Visit Approved Automotive Services for expert maintenance and reliable car servicing.

Air Filters

Most modern diesel vehicles are incredibly reliable, but they do expect a little cooperation from their owners. One of the most misunderstood features is the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and, more importantly, DPF regeneration.

At Approved Automotive Services, we are regularly asked questions about DPF warning lights, limp mode and why a vehicle suddenly seems to lose power. The good news is that many DPF problems can be prevented simply by understanding how your vehicle works and following the instructions in your owner's manual.

Learning when and how to allow your vehicle to complete a DPF regeneration could save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars in repairs. What Is a DPF? A Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is fitted to most modern diesel vehicles to reduce harmful exhaust emissions.

Think of it as a filter that traps tiny soot particles before they leave the exhaust pipe. Over time, this soot builds up and the filter needs to clean itself through a process called regeneration.

Without regular regeneration, the filter eventually becomes blocked, affecting both vehicle performance and fuel economy. What Is DPF Regeneration? DPF regeneration is simply the process of burning the trapped soot into a fine ash.

Your vehicle's computer raises the exhaust temperature high enough to burn away the soot, allowing the filter to continue doing its job.

There are generally three types of regeneration:

Passive Regeneration

Occurs naturally during longer highway drives when the exhaust gets hot enough.

Active Regeneration

The vehicle automatically injects additional fuel to increase exhaust temperature and clean the filter while you're driving.

Forced Regeneration

If the filter becomes too blocked, normal regeneration won't work. The vehicle needs specialised diagnostic equipment to perform a controlled regeneration at a workshop like Approved Automotive Services.

In some severe cases, the DPF may need to be professionally removed and cleaned or even replaced. Why Does My DPF Keep Blocking Up? Many Australian diesel vehicles spend most of their lives doing exactly what blocks a DPF.

Examples include: Short trips around Newton School drop-offs Stop-start traffic Low-speed suburban driving Frequent engine idling These driving conditions often don't allow the exhaust to become hot enough for regeneration to complete.

Over time, soot continues building until warning lights appear. What Happens If You Ignore the Warning Light? Ignoring a DPF warning light is one of the most expensive mistakes a diesel owner can make.

A blocked DPF can cause: Reduced engine power Poor fuel economy Excessive fuel consumption Higher exhaust temperatures Increased engine stress Turbocharger problems Increased exhaust back pressure Vehicle entering Limp Mode Engine warning lights Expensive repairs if left too long Many vehicles automatically enter Limp Mode to protect the engine once the DPF reaches a critical level of blockage.

This limits engine power and speed, often making highway driving difficult or unsafe until the problem is repaired. A Real-Life Example of DPF Regeneration Karen often explains it like this.

Imagine you've been using your diesel ute for local shopping, school runs and driving to work all week.

One afternoon, the DPF warning light appears.

Your owner's manual may recommend something similar to this: Drive on an open road or freeway. Maintain a steady speed of around 80-100 km/h. Keep the engine above approximately 2,000 rpm. Continue driving for 20-30 minutes without stopping if it is safe to do so. During this drive, the vehicle performs an active regeneration, burning off the accumulated soot.

The warning light may switch off once regeneration is complete.

Every manufacturer is different, so it's important to follow the instructions in your own owner's manual rather than relying on advice for another vehicle.

If the warning light remains on, or additional engine warning lights appear, it's time to have the vehicle professionally inspected. Can I Keep Driving With a Blocked DPF? Sometimes.

If the first warning light has only just appeared, following the manufacturer's regeneration procedure may solve the problem.

However, if the vehicle has entered Limp Mode or multiple warning lights are displayed, continuing to drive could cause further damage.

Having the vehicle checked promptly can often prevent a much more expensive repair. What Else Can a Blocked DPF Affect? A blocked DPF doesn't only affect the filter itself.

Treating the problem early often prevents these components from being affected.

It can also place additional strain on: How Approved Automotive Services Can Help As an independently owned Repco Authorised Service centre, Approved Automotive Services has the specialised diagnostic equipment and training needed to accurately diagnose DPF issues.

Depending on the condition of your vehicle, we can: Diagnose DPF warning lights Check soot loading levels Perform manufacturer-approved forced regenerations where appropriate Inspect sensors affecting regeneration Identify the underlying cause of repeated DPF problems Advise if professional DPF cleaning or replacement is required Most importantly, we'll explain what's happening in plain English so you understand how to prevent the problem returning. Tips to Help Prevent DPF Problems Looking after your DPF doesn't have to be difficult.

A few simple habits can make a big difference. Read your owner's manual and understand your vehicle's regeneration procedure. Don't ignore DPF warning lights. Complete regeneration when your vehicle requests it. Include occasional longer highway drives where practical. Use the correct low-ash engine oil specified by the manufacturer. Keep up with scheduled servicing. Have engine warning lights investigated promptly. Don't repeatedly switch the engine off if regeneration is in progress. An Interesting DPF Fact During an active regeneration, exhaust temperatures can exceed 600°C—hot enough to burn away the trapped soot inside the filter. It's an impressive example of modern engineering quietly working in the background to keep your diesel running cleaner and more efficiently. DPF Regeneration FAQs Does every diesel vehicle have a DPF? Most modern diesel passenger vehicles, SUVs and light commercial vehicles do, although older diesel models may not. Can a failed sensor stop DPF regeneration? Yes. Faulty temperature, pressure or exhaust sensors can prevent the vehicle from completing regeneration even if the DPF itself isn't heavily blocked. Can towing actually help regenerate a DPF? Often, yes. Longer drives while towing can increase exhaust temperatures enough to assist regeneration, provided the vehicle is operating normally and the manufacturer's requirements are met. Does using premium diesel stop DPF problems? Premium diesel may help reduce deposits in some fuel systems, but it won't prevent soot build-up if the vehicle never completes regeneration. Will disconnecting the battery clear a DPF warning light? No. The vehicle's computer monitors soot loading and sensor data. Disconnecting the battery won't remove the soot trapped inside the DPF or fix the underlying issue. Don't Wait Until Your Diesel Goes Into Limp Mode If your diesel has a DPF warning light, reduced performance or has entered Limp Mode, don't ignore the signs.

The experienced team at Approved Automotive Services in Newton can diagnose the problem, explain what's happening in easy-to-understand language and recommend the most appropriate repair before a minor issue becomes a major expense.

Whether your vehicle needs a professional forced regeneration, a DPF clean or simply expert advice on how to complete regeneration correctly, you can rely on Approved Automotive Services—your trusted local Repco Authorised Service centre—to help keep your diesel performing at its best. Book Online Today

Don't Ignore That DPF Light! Your Diesel Is Trying to Tell You Something

Get ready to experience the thrill of the Supercars Gold Coast 500 - on us! Simply replace your car battery with a Repco battery at Repco Authorised Service and you could be heading to one of Australia’s most exciting motorsport events with your family. This is your chance to combine essential vehicle maintenance with an unforgettable holiday experience. What You Could Win One lucky winner will receive: Return flights for 2 adults and 2 children (if required) 3–4 nights accommodation 4 x General Admission Tickets to the Supercars Gold Coast 500 $500 spending money allowance Supercars merchandise pack Theme park tickets for 2 adults and 2 children Airport transfers (if required) From high-speed track action to theme park fun and beachside relaxation, this prize package delivers the ultimate family getaway. How to Enter Entering is easy: Have your car battery replaced with a Repco battery at Approved Automotive Services between 1 June and 31 July 2026. Then, complete your entry online here. That’s it! You’ll be in the draw to win an incredible Gold Coast Supercars experience. Why Wait? A new battery keeps your vehicle reliable and ready for the road — and now it could also put you on track for an unforgettable family holiday. Book your battery replacement today at your Approved Automotive Services and get your entry in before 31 July 2026. View full terms and conditions here. Don’t miss out - start your engines and enter today!

Enter for your chance to win a family trip to the Supercars Gold Coast 500! Replace your battery with Approved Automotive Services between 1 June and 31 July 2026 to go in the draw.

Win a Family Gold Coast Experience

Repco Authorised Service is Australia's largest network of independent car service workshops and with that comes the reliability of a Nationwide Warranty. Each independently owned Repco Authorised Service workshop offers you an Australian-wide warranty ensuring the goods and services you receive are free from defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty is in addition to your rights under the Australian Consumer Law. If something does go wrong or you have a question about our Nationwide Warranty, please get in touch with us here. With over 500 Repco Authorised Service centres Australia wide, there are few places you won't find one of our workshops within easy reach. Warranty Period For services provided by any Repco Authorised Service workshop, the warranty is for a period of 12 months or 20,000kms (whichever comes first) from the date of your invoice. Claims If you need to make a claim under the warranty, please contact the Repco Authorised Service workshop that originally completed the work on your vehicle. The workshop where the work was originally performed will be responsible for responding to and accepting claims. If the original workshop can't help, they may authorise another workshop in the network to assist. Terms and Conditions What does the warranty cover? The Repco Authorised Service workshop will have the option of reperforming, replacing or repairing the good or service if it is or becomes defective during the warranty period, at no additional charge.
a.       Where the good or service is replaced, repaired or reperformed pursuant to this warranty, the replacement good or reperformed service will be subject to the terms of this warranty commencing on the date of the original invoice.
b.       If you request for a good to be repaired, your Repco Authorised Service workshop may choose to replace the good with a refurbished good of the same type. The warranty will cover any reasonable diagnosis or scanning fees conducted by the relevant Repco Authorised Service workshop, if such goods or services are later found to be defective. If the work done on your vehicle involves the supply of services from another service provider nominated by the Repco Authorised Service centre, the warranty offered by such service provider will replace this Nationwide Warranty to the extent of such goods .  The Repco Authorised Service centre will advise you of the terms and conditions of such warranty. The rights and obligations under this warranty remain solely with the original Repco Authorised Service workshop that provided you with the product or service. The benefit of this warranty is personal to you and is not transferable. What does the warranty not cover? This warranty does not cover: normal wear and tear and consumable goods such as globes, wipers, and fluids; loss of any data stored in your vehicle like music or phone numbers; and any incidental loss or damage caused by the defect, such as towing fees, loss of profits, loss of use and loss of goodwill or other loss or damage that cannot reasonably be considered to arise normally. This warranty is void if the defect is a consequence of misuse, neglect, abuse, incorrect operation or improper maintenance of the vehicle, accident, or other use that is not otherwise caused by a Repco Authorised Service workshop. How to submit a warranty claim Step 1: Have your original invoice ready. Step 2: Ensure that you make your claim within the warranty period. Step 3:  Please contact the Repco Authorised Service centre that carried out the relevant repairs or maintenance on your vehicle. Their contact details are on  your original invoice.  Your rights under the Australian Consumer Law The goods and services acquired from a Repco Authorised Service workshop comes with guarantees that cannot be excluded under the Australian Consumer Law. For major failures with the service, you are entitled: to cancel your service contract with us; and to a refund for the unused portion, or to compensation for its reduced value. You are also entitled to choose a refund or replacement for major failures with goods. If a failure with the goods or a service does not amount to a major failure, you are entitled to have the failure rectified in a reasonable time. If this is not done, you are entitled to a refund for the goods and to cancel the contract for the service and obtain a refund of any unused portion. You are also entitled to be compensated for any other reasonably foreseeable loss or damage from a failure in the goods or service.

Enjoy peace of mind with the Repco Authorised Service Nationwide Warranty. Quality parts and labour covered at over 500 locations across Australia.

Nationwide Warranty

Your tyres are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road, making them one of the most critical safety components. At Approved Automotive Services in Newton, we help drivers understand how tyres work, why maintenance matters, and how the right tyres can improve safety, fuel efficiency, and driving comfort across Australian conditions. How Tyres Create Grip on the Road Tyres generate grip through a combination of rubber compound, tread design, and road contact pressure. As your vehicle moves, the tyre’s rubber slightly deforms and “keys” into the microscopic texture of the road surface. This interaction creates friction, allowing your car to accelerate, brake, and corner safely.

Modern tyres are engineered to balance grip and durability. Softer compounds offer better traction but wear faster, while harder compounds last longer but may sacrifice some grip—particularly in wet or cold conditions. Tread patterns also play a vital role, helping to channel water away and maintain consistent road contact. Why Tyre Tread Matters – Preventing Aquaplaning Tyre tread is designed to disperse water from beneath the tyre. When tread becomes worn, it loses its ability to move water efficiently. This can lead to aquaplaning, where a layer of water builds between the tyre and the road surface, causing a sudden loss of steering and braking control. What to do if aquaplaning occurs: Stay calm and avoid sudden movements Gently ease off the accelerator Keep the steering wheel straight Do not brake harshly Once traction returns, you can gradually regain control. Regular tyre inspections at Approved Automotive Services in Newton help reduce the risk of this dangerous situation. Signs Your Tyres Need Attention Low or uneven tread depth Cracks, bulges, or visible damage Increased stopping distance Vibrations while driving Uneven wear across the tyre surface Ignoring these signs can affect not just your tyres, but also your suspension, steering, and braking systems. Professional Tyre Services at Approved Automotive Services As a trusted, independently owned Repco Authorised Service centre, Approved Automotive Services in Newton offers a complete tyre solution for: Passenger vehicles SUVs and 4WDs Hybrid & Electric Vehicles Light trucks and commercial vehicles We are proud agents for Kumho Tyres, known for their balance of performance and value, and we can also source a wide range of other leading brands to suit your vehicle and budget. Our in-house services include: Precision wheel alignments Professional wheel balancing Tyre fitting and replacement Tyre rotation to minimise uneven wear Regular tyre rotations and alignments are essential to extend tyre life and maintain safe handling—especially on Australia’s varied road surfaces. Tips to Prevent Tyre Issues Check tyre pressure monthly (including the spare) Inspect tread depth regularly Rotate tyres every 10,000 km Book regular wheel alignments Avoid harsh braking and aggressive cornering Tyres FAQs How often should I replace my tyres? Most tyres should be replaced when tread depth reaches 1.6mm, but earlier replacement is recommended for optimal safety, especially in wet weather. What causes uneven tyre wear? Poor wheel alignment, incorrect tyre pressure, and worn suspension components are common causes. Are wheel alignments really necessary? Yes. Misalignment can lead to faster tyre wear, poor handling, and reduced fuel efficiency. Your Local Tyre Experts in Newton When it comes to tyre safety, performance, and value, trust the experienced team at Approved Automotive Services. As a Repco Authorised Service centre, we combine expert advice, quality products like Kumho Tyres and professional in-house services to keep you safely on the road.

Expert tyre fitting, Kumho tyres, wheel alignments & balancing in Newton. Trust Approved Automotive Services for safer driving, better grip & longer tyre life.

Grip You Can Trust: Understanding Tyre Performance & Safety

Drive Safer this Winter with a 65 Point Written Vehicle Inspection Report from Approved Automotive Services. Book your inspection today! Our 65 Point Vehicle Inspection Report is free with every service at Approved Automotive Services in Newton. Our qualified mechanics will visually check over the important components of your vehicle and provide you with a written report on the condition of your vehicle. We can then help you understand any concerns which may need to be attended so that you can drive safe this winter with Approved Automotive Services and Repco Authorised Service. Safe Winter Driving Tips Windscreen Wipers - Making it clear Don't you hate that moment when you switch on the wipers at the first spot of rain and suddenly remember you haven't checked them in months! Wiper blades don't last forever, especially sitting under the harsh Australian sun all summer. A good quality wiper blade like Trico is essential to help you see your way clear regardless of the weather. Approved Automotive Services can recommend a wiper blade or assembly that is right for your car. Oils - Keep your fluids up Fluids and other mechanisms in your car can be impacted by cold weather; such as coolants, oils and items such as glow plugs in diesel vehicles. Regular services are important - especially by an expert who understands the correct products and parts to keep your car in peak operating condition. We use high quality NGK glow plugs and Penrite oils and fluids that are designed for Australian conditions.   Change in Weather - Drive to the Conditions Always remember to drive to your conditions. Slow down in wet weather or poor visibility and leave a larger than normal stopping distance between yourself and the vehicle in front. Drive on the safe side and book in today for a service or a 65 Point Vehicle Inspection Report. Brake Maintenance - Could you stop in time? There are signs that your brakes need inspecting, including vibrating, spongy or slow responding brake pedal, strange sounds or difficult handling when applying pressure to your brakes. If your car is doing any of these it's best to have a qualified mechanic check it out. Brake inspections form part of our 65 Point Vehicle Inspection Report, so if you have concerns call us today and book in. Tyres - Do you have Grip? It's dangerous to drive on worn or incorrectly inflated tyres. Now is the time to check how worn your tyres are. If you spot uneven tyre wear, this could indicate that your shock absorbers or some other vital part of your steering and suspension systems are due for service or replacement. Find out more about the components that affect your tyre wear on the links below:  Driving on tyres that are incorrectly inflated won't just cost you money on additional fuel; it can also impact your braking ability. You can usually find manufacturers recommendations on a panel inside the driver side door. Safe-T-Stop Brake & Suspension Testing Approved Automotive Services has a state of the art Safe T Stop machine that can accurately test for shocker and brake wear and tear and provide you with a detailed report on the state of your vehicles ability to stop in an emergency. Call us today to book in for a Safe T Stop test.

Approved Automotive Services suggests to always remember to drive to your conditions. Slow down in wet weather or poor visibility and leave a larger than normal stopping distance...

Approved Automotive Services

Cars are our passion.

Air Filters

Don't Ignore That DPF Light! Your Diesel Is Trying to Tell You Something

Win a Family Gold Coast Experience

Nationwide Warranty

Grip You Can Trust: Understanding Tyre Performance & Safety

Drive Safely This Winter